The Range of Countermeasures to Reduce Inequalities in Mental Health Care for Socially Marginalized or Medically Vulnerable Adults

Abstract

Background Socially marginalized or medically vulnerable adults are affected by severe health inequalities and are at increased risk of poorer accessibility and quality of integrated mental health care. Health professionals often have stigmatizing attitudes towards people with mental health disorders. This study aimed to identify groups of socially marginalized or medically vulnerable adults and to collect the already implemented or proposed countermeasures to reduce inequalities in high-quality integrated mental health care for such individuals with mental health disorders. Methods A qualitative research approach was used for the study – a systematic literature review conducted according to PRISMA guidelines and an analysis of previous research and relevant literature on mental health care for socially marginalized and medically vulnerable adults. The time frame for the search in the respective databases ranged from 2014 to the present. Results This research identifies the gaps and that marginalized individuals are medically vulnerable. A spectrum of countermeasures to reduce inequalities for quality integrated mental health care for socially marginalized or medically vulnerable adults was compiled. The countermeasures need to be addressed comprehensively as part of integrated mental health and social care for marginalized or vulnerable people and promote culturally competent ethical attitudes among health professionals and in society at large. Discussion The countermeasures can usefully be applied to another marginalized or vulnerable group in mental health care, regardless of the level or area in which it has been identified. The range of countermeasures for individual marginalized and vulnerable groups differs only slightly, and they can usefully complement one another. The findings of this review provide a basis for a better understanding of interventions aimed at reducing stigma in health care. Trial registration Not applicable for a systematic review.